Three fly-tippers have been caught out by Stoke-on-Trent’s first solar-powered CCTV camera.
This is the first solar-powered rapid deployment camera used by Stoke-on-Trent City Council in a remote area, that has historically been a magnet for illegal dumping.
The CCTV camera is monitored seven days a week, 24 hours a day and was first installed in March on Red Hills Road, Milton – which has been highlighted by residents as an illegal dumping hotspot.
Success quickly followed, with the camera recording three people blighting the area with illegal waste during April.
Each has now received a fixed-penalty notice of £1,000.
Councillor Amjid Wazir OBE - cabinet member for city pride, enforcement and sustainability for Stoke-on-Trent City Council - said: “It’s great to see this new technology being put to good use.
“Flytipping is completely unacceptable. It doesn’t just blight local communities – it can also create fire hazards and public health risks.
“Our stance remains crystal-clear: dumping waste illegally will lead to a hefty fine.
“Stoke-on-Trent has two household waste recycling centres and people can also arrange for a home collection – which is roughly £950 cheaper than a fixed-penalty notice.”
Councillor Dave Evans, ward councillor for Milton and Norton, said: “It’s fantastic to see the camera on Red Hills Road catching and prosecuting people who don’t respect our village. This should send a clear message to those who wish to dump rubbish aren’t welcome in Milton, and they will be fined.”
The solar-powered RDC CCTV camera was funded through Stoke-on-Trent City Council’s Environmental Crime Unit, with a contribution from ward councillor, Cllr Dave Evans.
The Environmental Crime Unit is now considering installing further solar-powered CCTV units in other remote areas.
For info on the best way to dispose of your waste, please visit: www.stoke.gov.uk/illegaldumping
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